Who teaches boys what it means to be a man today? Families, schools and communities remain essential sources of guidance, but young men are increasingly influenced by algorithm-driven online content that can distort their outlook on life, impact their behaviours, women's rights and the meaning of gender equality itself.
At a time of growing social and political uncertainty, stereotypes about masculinity are regaining traction and anti-gender narratives are spreading across digital spaces. Gender equality cannot be achieved by women alone. Engaging men and boys helps build more resilient democracies, strengthen social cohesion and prevent violence.
This session of the BŪTENT! Festival will explore what is driving these shifts, what consequences they may have for attitudes towards women and how societies can create positive pathways for men and boys to become active partners in advancing equality.
Speaking at the event:
- Jolanta Reingardė, Senior Researcher and Analyst, European Institute for Gender Equality
- Peter Söderström, Violence-prevention expert, Swedish Gender Equality Agency
- Indrė Vareikytė, Communications and Strategic Relations Lead in defense sector
- Umberto Masi, President, LiJOT
Moderator: Georgie Bradley, Spokesperson and the Media Officer, European Institute for Gender Equality.